Tips for helping someone who is depressed

Depression is a serious but treatable mental illness that affects millions of individuals of all ages and backgrounds. It obstructs daily life, creating excruciating anguish that affects not only people who are afflicted but also those around them.

It might be difficult to assist a friend or loved one who is depressed. Understanding the symptoms of depression is the most crucial step in assisting a loved one who is suffering from it. The severity of the major depressive disorder varies from person to person, as do the symptoms. Understanding the potential symptoms will help you better comprehend what your loved one is going through.

7 Ways to Help Someone who is depressed

• Find out the facts about depression.

On the internet, there are reputable sources that provide information about depression, including symptoms and treatment options. Reading up on the symptoms of depression as well as the stigma associated with mental illness can help you better understand your loved one's situation.

• Take Care of Yourself .

Caring for a loved one who suffers from depression can be difficult and stressful. Make sure you're taking care of your own needs, setting appropriate boundaries, and seeking help from a therapist or support group.

• Support them in finding assistance .

Your friend may be unaware that they are suffering from depression or may be unclear on how to get help.

Even if they are aware that counseling may be beneficial, finding a therapist and scheduling an appointment might be difficult.

If your friend appears to be interested in counseling, offer to assist them in finding a therapist. You can assist your friend in making a list of questions to ask potential therapists and topics to discuss in their first session.

If they're suffering, encouraging and helping them to make that first appointment can be quite beneficial.

• Recognize and Accept Your Emotions .

Depression is difficult for both the individual who is depressed and those who care about them. Remember that your emotions are a valid response to what can be a difficult circumstance to navigate at times.

Finding a caregiver support group, talking with a close friend, or seeing a counselor may be beneficial. It's crucial to let out your frustrations rather than allowing them to annoy.

• Keep in contact .

Allowing your friend to know you still care about them as they battle through their sadness might be beneficial.

Even if you can't spend a lot of time with them regularly, send them a text, contact them, or pay them a quick visit. Even a simple text message such as "I've been thinking of you and I care about you" can be helpful.

People that are depressed may become more reclusive and avoid interacting with others, so you may find yourself working more to keep the friendship going. Continuing to be a good, supporting presence in your friend's life, even if they can't communicate it to you right now, may make all the difference.

• Pay attention to them.

Make your friend aware that you are there for them. Start the discussion by expressing your concerns and asking a particular question. Remember that while your buddy may want to talk about their feelings, they may not want advice.

Instead of assuming you understand what they mean, ask questions to learn more.

• Confirm their feelings.

With your body language, express empathy, and curiosity.

If your friend doesn't want to talk the first time you ask, continue to remind them your care can help.

Continue to ask open questions and communicate your worry (without being aggressive). When feasible, try to hold conversations in person. Try video conferencing if you live in separate places.